Call me a DOG if I EVER help anyone carry their crap again! SO MAD!

[Florence Stark]

Let's talk about my "quirky" experiences of hailing a taxi in Shenzhen...

Oh man, sometimes taking a taxi in Shenzhen can be quite exasperating! It just makes you want to vent!

• I have scheduled rides well ahead of time and provided accurate pickup addresses, yet the drivers still:
  • Fail to locate your specified pick-up point! Yes, they can't find it. Certain areas in Shenzhen, like large housing communities or office buildings, may have multiple entrance/exit points. Thus, drivers may get confused.
  • Struggle with communication! What you think is 'east', they go 'west'. Sometimes it feels like talking to a duck when you try to explain yourself, especially if there are language barriers or differences in understanding certain place names.
• What's most infuriating?
  • The driver has received the booking confirmation and drives somewhere unknown, then pretends he has arrived at the designated pick-up spot, lying through his teeth.
  • Sometimes drivers lose their way and then take out their anger on you; it's really frustrating.
• Overall outcomes? A waste of my time and money! Spending money for nothing but frustration indeed! You deserve better.

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️ Reminder for friends visiting Shenzhen (pay attention!):

If you plan to use ride-hailing apps, such as Didi Chuxing (China’s most common ride-hailing app), note these tips that may help:

• Precise pinpointing:
  • With towering buildings and numerous residential complexes, there may be several entry and exit points. Make sure to choose identifiable landmarks, subway entrances or bus stops as pick-up/drop-off points instead of small alleyways which might cause confusion.
  • Utilize the in-app features: Many ride-hailing apps offer a 'send location button' or 'point on map' function. Verify its accuracy. Also send a screenshot of your location to the driver if possible, outlining exactly where you are, making it easier for them.
• Effective communication requires patience:
  • If you are not proficient in Chinese, prepare basic phrases, or utilize the in-built translation chat feature in the app if available.
  • Be patient! Sometimes, traffic conditions may delay the driver.
• Check vehicle info:
  • Upon arrival, ensure the license plate number, and vehicle make & model match the displayed information before getting into the car.
• Avoid unnecessary arguments:
  • In case of rude behavior or delays caused by the driver, don’t engage in roadside conflicts as it’s detrimental to your mood and safety.
  • Keep evidence: Like booking screenshots, call recordings (if the app has a recording feature). Afterward, report grievances via the company’s customer service channel to protect your rights.

Hope these tips will be useful for all and help with smoother transportation experiences in Shenzhen.

#ShenzhenTravelFrustrations #ShenzhenTransportationExperience

[Lula Turner]

It's true, struggling to get a taxi to the right spot can be a real headache. However, I've noticed the official traffic signs on the streets are actually quite clear. Relying on those might be more accurate and convenient. You could give it a shot!